One of my goals for 2010 was to go sub-40 mins in 10k road race. I avoided the BUPA Great Manchester Run in May as this race attracts >25,000 people, making it hard to get a good time. So I signed up for a smaller event, the City of Manchester 10k organized by Sports Tours Internationals, which attracts about 2,500 runners. The race started and finished on the athletics track at Sport City - see here for the route - making it good for spectators. The weather was cool and dry so good for running, but not perfect as there was a bit of a headwind in places. The legend that is Ron Hill took part and got the race underway. Encouraged by Howard, I pushed right to the front for the start so got off to a flyer. I then settled down into a good rhythm and in the final 3k still felt strong.
I had been checking my watch periodically so I knew I was on course but I only ever looked at my pace, not the actual time, so I was shocked when I came around the final bend and saw the official clock reading 37 mins something. I pushed on and finished in 37:32 - a massive PB, placing me 32nd! In 2007 and 2009, my 10k times were 45:41 and 41:22 respectively, so well chuffed with this big improvement.
Had a good chat with Neil and Howard after. Will do this again next year!
